If you are looking for a simple and filling lunch to make for the family try this recipe out. Growing up in Colombia, my mom used to feed me arepas for breakfast daily; I think I got to the point that I didn’t wanted to eat them anymore!
Since I moved to the United States several years ago, I only eat arepas occasionally and truly enjoy them when I do. This past weekend I was in the mood for arepas with shredded beef or carne desmechada.
This recipe is super simple and so delicious, my husband who is American absolutely enjoys this type of lunch. You can add your favorite cheese, avocado, lettuce, pink sauce, anything you are in the mood four! Also, if you don’t want meat, you can substitute with scramble eggs. Just be as creative as you want to be and enjoy!
Arepas Stuffed with Shredded Beef
Ingredients
Arepas
Beef
Instructions
Arepas
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In a medium bowl, add the corn meal, salt and water.
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Mix until you see a nice dough like mixture and with your hands, divide the dough into equal portions about 4 to 6 portions.
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Form the equal size balls and flatten them gently until they look like thick discs.
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In a skillet over medium heat, place the discs and cook for about 5 minutes on each side or until you see them golden brown.
Beef
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Take the beef roast and season with salt and pepper both sides.
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Take a large skillet/pan, add the 1 1/2 tablespoon of avocado oil, and heat on medium high.
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Once brown on all sides, transfer the seared beef to a clean plate.
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Set the crockpot on high.
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Add the plate of seared beef and any juices, bay leaves, sprig of thyme, Worcestershire sauce, and the beef broth.
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Cover and cook high for 4 hours; 2 hours in flip the beef over and cook until the beef is cooked through and fall-apart tender.
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After 4 hours, shred the beef with two forks. Remember to remove the two bay leaves and stems of thyme before serving.
To Serve
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Cut the arepas in half and add the shredded beef.
Optional: Pour the crock pot juices over the beef. To thicken the juices into a sauce; take 1 tablespoon of cornstarch/flour and 1 tablespoon of water and whisk in a small bowl. Then slowly pour in the sauce and mix well. Continue this process until your desired consistency.
